Chihuahuan Raven
NameChihuahuan Raven
Common NameChihuahuan Raven
Scientific NameCorvus cryptoleucus
FamilyCorvidae
Wingspan (cm)101
Length (cm)47.5
Weight (g)525
Plumage DetailsEntirely glossy black plumage, often with a purplish sheen. It has shaggy throat feathers, and a key identifying feature is the white feather bases on the neck and back, which are often visible when the feathers are ruffled by wind or during vocalization.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a distinctive, often higher-pitched and more nasal 'grawk-grawk' or 'craw-craw' compared to the deeper calls of the Common Raven. They also produce a variety of croaks, rattles, and other complex sounds.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the southwestern United States (including parts of Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Colorado) and northern Mexico, primarily associated with the Chihuahuan Desert and surrounding arid grasslands and shrublands.
Identifying Featuresall black plumage, shaggy throat feathers, white feather bases (visible when ruffled), distinctive nasal calls, wedge-shaped tail, prefers arid habitats
Description
The Chihuahuan Raven is a medium-sized, all-black passerine bird found in arid regions of North America. It is known for its intelligence and adaptability, often seen foraging on the ground or perched conspicuously on branches and utility poles.
